Articles - Modern Grace Magazine

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Lifestyle

Inspirational Women – Dawn Wilmott

Educator through and through, this dynamic teacher and business owner has taken control of her health and stands as an inspiration that it’s never “too late” in life to make major life changes and fulfill your dreams. Interview MG: Currently, where are you employed? DAWN: I currently teach English at Central High School. My husband and I also own two businesses, Mission Inflatable, LLC and The Dinosaur Experience. I am an Independent Certified Optavia Health Coach. I am also a children’s book author. MG: What is your favorite part about living here? DAWN: Louisiana has such a rich history and culture. It is so unique: its people, culture, food, and history. It does have its faults, but you do miss it when you leave. MG: What is an event in your life that significantly changed ...

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Fashion

Summer Fashion with Flare

With summer quickly approaching, it’s time to start thinking about what summer fashion trends will be big this season. Summer fashion trends come and go; but some of them are timeless and will stay in the closets of fashion-conscious individuals year after year. Whether you’re attending a summer wedding, enjoying a beach day, or just going out on the town, there is sure to be a trend that suits your personality and style. In the ever-changing world of fashion and style, staying on top of the current trends is a full-time job. It can be difficult to keep your look fresh and up to date, however, when all the current trends seem to be the same. Adding flare and individuality to these trends is key to keeping your look unique and interesting. A summer wardrobe should be filled with bright...

By MGMNo Comments

Food

Simple Mongolian Beef and Vegetables

Louisiana cuisine is rooted in a culture of celebration and hospitality. It is a melting pot of flavors and influences from French, Spanish, African, German, Italian and Native American culture. The distinctive blend of ingredients and culinary methods produces a delectable and lively cuisine that mirrors the exceptional history of our state. The most iconic dishes in Louisiana cuisine are gumbo, Po’boys, jambalaya, crawfish, and shrimp Étouffée. Other popular dishes in Louisiana cuisine include red beans and rice, beignets, and bananas foster. Louisiana food an integral part of our culture and is a reflection of the unique backgrounds of its people, and is served with warmth and hospitality. (Not all foods or recipes contained are Louisiana based). 3 Tbsp olive oil divided ...

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Lifestyle

Inspirational Women – Trish Gassaway

If loving others and valuing people were super-powers, Trish Gassaway would be super-hero number one. This two-time cancer survivor has learned that life is way too short to waste it! Interview MG: If you haven’t lived in Louisiana your entire life, what led you to move here? TRISH: My husband is from Louisiana and he was looking for a new career change and was offered one at Fraenkel Company so we moved here in May of 1996. MG: What is your favorite part about living here? TRISH: The experiences and opportunities that myself and family has had along with the southern hospitality and food!! MG: What is an event in your life that significantly changed the course of it? TRISH: The death of my dear friend Nancy and a few years later my dad. MG: What negative impacts did that ...

You’ll Never Forget a Simple Place Setting Ever Again

By Michelle JesterNo Comments

Home & Garden

You’ll Never Forget a Simple Place Setting Ever Again

Here’s how to always remember a simple place setting. LEFT has four (4) letters in it, so does FORK; so your fork goes on the left side of the plate.RIGHT has five (5) letters in it, so do KNIFE and SPOON; they go on the right side of the plate.In alphabetical order = fork, knife, spoon.The sharp side of the knife faces the plate, so that when one reaches for their spoon they won’t risk cutting themselves by accident.Glasses go to the top right of the plate as most people are right handed. It's that simple!! As seen in Modern Grace Magazine /*! elementor - v3.16.0 - 09-10-2023 */ .elementor-widget-image{text-align:center}.elementor-widget-image a{display:inline-block}.elementor-widget-image a img[src$=".svg"]{width:48px}.elementor-widget-image img{vertical-align:middle;display:...

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Culture

May-August Festival Highlights

Some of the most colorful and unique festivals in the nation take place here during May through July, offering visitors a chance to experience the culture and way of life of the region. From music and food festivals to art and religious events, Louisiana has something for everyone to enjoy. May The first major festival of the season is the Louisiana Cajun-Zydeco Festival in Lafayette, which takes place from May 3rd to May 5th. This event brings together the best of the region’s Cajun and Zydeco music, dance, and food. Attendees can enjoy traditional Cajun and Zydeco music performed by some of the most renowned artists in the state, as well as sample some of the region’s most beloved dishes such as jambalaya, gumbo, and étouffée. There are also plenty of activities for the children, in...

By MGMNo Comments

Lifestyle

Inspirational Women – Maggie Blake

Consistently placing in the top ten property management companies in Baton Rouge, Maggie Blake has built a business with integrity and grit. Having overcome abuse, cancer, and financial devastation, she shows time and time again that setbacks, are merely step-ups. Interview MG: Where were you born and raised? MAGGIE: Rochester, New York. MG: If not Louisiana, what led to you move here? When? MAGGIE: I moved in 1994 with my then-husband, so that he could follow his dreams of radio hosting. We initially moved to Shreveport. MG: Currently, where are you employed? MAGGIE: MB Management Group, LLC. MG: What is your job title? MAGGIE: Owner, realtor, property manager. MG: What is your favorite part about living here? MAGGIE: My favorite part about living in Louisiana is my...

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Lifestyle

Inspirational Women – Macy Rushing

Author and farmer Macy Rushing embodies the truth that we are all much more than test scores! Local celebrity author of the Lucky the Cow children’s book series, she is an inspiration to all that you can overcome! Interview MG: Where were you born and raised? MACY: Ethel, la MG: What is you educational background and/or experience? MACY: Associate degree in criminal justice MG: Currently, where are you employed? MACY: Stay at home mama. The best job! MG: What is your job title? MACY: Caretaker to cows and kids MG: What is your favorite part about living here? MACY: It’s the south, what’s not to love besides the heat—the people, community, fellowship, tradition, and food. Can’t beat it! MG: What is an event in your life that significantly changed the course of it? ...

By Michelle JesterNo Comments

Letter from the Editor

Rebirth is Near

Here in Louisiana, spring is a season of vibrant colors, of chirping birds and happy, scampering squirrels. It is a time of glorious blooms and the sweet scent of flowers in the air. As the temperatures gradually rise, the trees fill out with lush, green leaves and the air is suddenly filled with the songs of birds. A rebirthing. I think that is why so many people love spring the most. It reminds us that all things can be made new. Bad seasons can leave and be replaced with fresh seasons of growth and warmth. Even though our winters are fairly mild, we still get a few cold snaps here and there. Mostly our cold temperatures are mild enough that most of the time, we can still wear shorts and t-shirts. Still, after several weeks of chilly weather in January and February, spring’s livel...

By MGMNo Comments

Health

The Health Balance

When it comes to our health, moderation is key. Too much of any one thing can be detrimental to our overall health. Even if we think we are making wise health decisions by indulging in one particular activity or food, too much of it can be harmful and lead to negative outcomes. First, let’s look at the importance of eating a balanced diet. Eating too much of one particular food group can lead to vitamin and mineral deficiencies, as well as weight gain. In addition to that, over-consuming certain fats and carbohydrates can increase the risk for cardiovascular disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, excess calories can lead to obesity, which in turn increases the risk for type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. It is important to remember that moderatio...

By MGMNo Comments

Inspire

Water the Crop

Watering Your Garden: A Guide to Nurturing Your Own Growth “Gardening is how I relax. It’s how I find a way to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of life. You can’t rush it; you have to take your time and nurture what you’ve planted.” Johnny Depp No matter how you feel about Johnny Depp, his words ring true; gardening is a great example of how we must nurture what we plant in order to reap the rewards. The same is true for the parts of our life that we want to see grow. We must tend to our own garden—the good that we sow and the future harvest that we want to reap—in order to have a successful and fruitful life. Just as we nurture a garden in order to thrive and grow, we must also cultivate the parts of our life that we want to see flourish. We must put in the hard work and de...

Get Ready to Garden in Louisiana this Spring

By MGMNo Comments

Home & Garden

Get Ready to Garden in Louisiana this Spring

Louisiana is known for its lush and vibrant landscapes, and it is a great place to cultivate flowers, vegetables, and other plants. For those of us living in the state, spring is the perfect time of year to start thinking about gardening and getting ready to start planting. With the right tools and preparation, people in Louisiana can have a beautiful garden that will provide plenty of nutrients and aesthetic value. The spring season offers the perfect temperature for gardening and planting in Louisiana. Throughout the spring months, temperatures range from 50-80 degrees Fahrenheit and humidity is generally relatively low. This allows plants to receive the right amount of sunlight and warmth to grow. It is also important to note that the soil in Louisiana is generally humus-rich, which ...

By MGMNo Comments

Beauty

Prepare Your Skin for Spring

Spring is one of the most awaited seasons of the year, when flowers are blooming and the days are getting warmer. But for many, the arrival of spring can also be accompanied by dry, itchy skin. That’s why it’s important to make sure you’re taking extra steps to prepare your skin for the changing weather. The first step to preparing your skin for spring is to exfoliate regularly. Exfoliating helps remove dry, flaky skin and unclogs pores, allowing your skin to better absorb moisture. Using an exfoliating scrub or a chemical exfoliant like glycolic acid or lactic acid can help your skin to maintain its natural glow. You should exfoliate once or twice a week, depending on your skin type. The next step is to use a moisturizer. During the colder months, your skin tends to dry out more easi...

Inspirational Women – Kimberly Meadowlark

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Lifestyle

Inspirational Women – Kimberly Meadowlark

Art and Photography go hand-in-hand with local artist, Kimberly Meadowlark. She pours herself into everything she does and actively supports other artists by inspiring them to follow their creativity and individuality. Interview MGM: Currently, where are you employed? KIMBERLY: I just made six years self-employment in August, and could not be more thankful for the career I chose. MGM: What is your job title? KIMBERLY: I am equal parts photographer and artist MGM: What is your favorite part about living here? KIMBERLY: You get a little taste of city, but you also get that comfortable down-home family feeling. The food, culture, and traditions are pretty unmatched. MGM: What is an event in your life that significantly changed the course of it? KIMBERLY: While my life has b...

By MGMNo Comments

Lifestyle

Inspirational Women – Heather Flynn

Although life can go in many different directions, Heather Flynn, owner of several Louisiana-based companies, proves that if you have the courage to follow you own path, you can make a life worth living well! Interview MG: Currently, where are you employed? HEATHER: I am self-employed. I invest in real estate, breathing new life into run down homes and offering creative financing solutions to people who need to sell their homes, but are unable to do so under the traditional route. I am also a consultant for a local construction company, Brothers Construction Company of Baton Rouge, Inc. MG: What is your job title? HEATHER: I am the owner of Heather Helps Houses and Fierce Property Solutions. Under real estate, creative financing specialist. Under construction, I consult on compa...

By MGMNo Comments

Health

These Feet Were Made for Walking

Feet are one of the most important parts of the body and serve many essential functions. Although feet were made for walking, they provide many other benefits as well. Taking the time to nurture and care for one’s feet is key to maintaining overall health. Feet are designed to be able to bear the weight of the entire body during movement. That means that foot muscles, tendons, and ligaments are constantly working together in order to maintain balance and support. Without feet, the body would not be able to stay upright, make sudden movements, or move quickly. No matter how strong or flexible the rest of the body may be, the feet are the function. When feet are neglected, foot problems such as bunions, corns, and hammertoes can occur. In addition, poor foot hygiene can lead to foot i...

By MGMNo Comments

Inspire

Start Fresh with Forgiveness

As your personal sowing season begins, it is important to remember the power of forgiveness. Forgiveness is an essential component of emotional and psychological well-being. Forgiving yourself and others can be a way to reduce stress, create healthier relationships, and strengthen your overall health. Forgiveness begins with finding the courage to let go of anger and hurt. It is important to remember that forgiving doesn’t mean that what happened was okay, it just means that you’re ready to move on. Forgiveness is not a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of strength. It takes courage to forgive those who have hurt you, and it takes strength to forgive yourself for your own mistakes. Scientific research has shown that the practice of forgiveness can lead to lower levels of stress and ...

By MGMNo Comments

Culture

January-April Festival Highlights

Louisiana is known as the festival capital of the United States and it certainly lives up to its reputation. Every year, the state hosts a variety of festivals and events, from traditional Mardi Gras celebrations to modern music and food festivals. There are so many events to choose from that it can be hard to know where to start. January January in Louisiana is the start of a new year of festivals and celebrations in the state. Louisiana is home to some of the most unique and vibrant festivals and events in the country. From Mardi Gras and festivals celebrating the culture of the bayou to live music events and film festivals, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the most popular festivals and events that will take place in Louisiana from January 2023 to April 20...

By MGMNo Comments

Lifestyle

Inspirational Women – Venessa Lewis

Are dreams really wishes your heart makes? If so, then Venessa Lewis brings happy hearts and fulfills wishes for children all over the state. Her business, Petite Princess Company, houses popular, whimsical, and inspiring fairytale characters that prove dreams are still alive and well. Interview MG: What is you educational background and/or experience? VENESSA: I have a B.A. in Mass Communications and an English Minor from LSU. I am also an APR (Accredited Public Relations) professional designation. I’ve worked as a graphic designer for 25+ years. MG: Currently, where are you employed? VENESSA: I own two of my own businesses! I launched Lewis Graphic Design in 2007 in which I have provide freelance graphic design services for a number of clients in the area. I also p...

By MGMNo Comments

Culture

Picture Louisiana – JC Coker III

We love to highlight some of the amazing photographers who find beauty in the breathtaking natural scenery of Louisiana as well as everyday life. From bustling cities, the lush swamplands, to the vibrant bayous, the state is teeming with beauty. The magnificent landscape of Louisiana is truly something to behold. Whether you’re looking going on a peaceful fishing trip or an adventurous outing, Louisiana has views for you to enjoy. From the natural beauty of the wetlands, the breathtaking beaches, bayous where rivers are lined with moss-covered cypress trees, Louisiana offers the perfect backdrop to many memorable experiences. Capturing the incredible scenery in Louisiana is easier and easier to share, with nearly everyone equipped with a camera. We hope you enjoy! As seen in Modern Grace M...

By Alexis JesterNo Comments

Beauty

Fall For Your Skin – Product Highlight

Fall and winter weather always evokes our love of certain scents and before we know it we are drinking steaming cups of tea infused with apples & oranges, eating hot pumpkin spice breads & cakes, and using fresh cinnamon sticks to warm up our houses. Why not use those same wonderful scents on our body? Here are four incredible cruelty-free products that we love! IOSSI Sweet Orange Nourishing Body Lotion A nourishing body lotion with a scent that reminds you of orange and chocolate. Wonderfully nourishes skin, leaving it deeply moisturized, soft and velvety smooth. It provides an immediate feeling of relief and protects against harmful external factors. The strength of the formula lies in its natural and organic ingredients: organic sweet almond oil and cocoa butter effec...

By Nelda ArnoldNo Comments

Food

Corn Dip

Louisiana cuisine is rooted in a culture of celebration and hospitality. It is a melting pot of flavors and influences from French, Spanish, African, German, Italian and Native American culture. The distinctive blend of ingredients and culinary methods produces a delectable and lively cuisine that mirrors the exceptional history of our state. The most iconic dishes in Louisiana cuisine are gumbo, Po’boys, jambalaya, crawfish, and shrimp Étouffée. Other popular dishes in Louisiana cuisine include red beans and rice, beignets, and bananas foster. Louisiana food an integral part of our culture and is a reflection of the unique backgrounds of its people, and is served with warmth and hospitality. (Not all foods or recipes contained are Louisiana based). 2 cans white shoe peg corn 1 s...

By MGMNo Comments

Food

Lasagna Cups

Louisiana cuisine is rooted in a culture of celebration and hospitality. It is a melting pot of flavors and influences from French, Spanish, African, German, Italian and Native American culture. The distinctive blend of ingredients and culinary methods produces a delectable and lively cuisine that mirrors the exceptional history of our state. The most iconic dishes in Louisiana cuisine are gumbo, Po’boys, jambalaya, crawfish, and shrimp Étouffée. Other popular dishes in Louisiana cuisine include red beans and rice, beignets, and bananas foster. Louisiana food an integral part of our culture and is a reflection of the unique backgrounds of its people, and is served with warmth and hospitality. (Not all foods or recipes contained are Louisiana based). 24 Wonton wrappers 8 oz....

By MGMNo Comments

Inspire

ALERT: New Season Ahead!

This time of year is a great show of life’s natural cycle and how it applies to us as people. Just like fall is a time of letting go of the old and preparing for the new, so too are we constantly letting go of old patterns and habits, and preparing for a better version of ourselves. We can learn a lot from the seasons as they follow this cycle as well. Fall is a time of rest, letting go of the old and preparing for the new. During fall, the trees and plants let go of their leaves and start to prepare for winter. After a time of rest and preparation, the new season of growth can begin. This is the process that we go through as people as well. The start of a new season is a time for renewal, both spiritually and physically. It’s a time to reassess our lives and to set new goals for the ...

By MGMNo Comments

Lifestyle

Inspirational Women – Brandi LeBlanc

A literal powerhouse, body builder Brandi LeBlanc inspires women to reach higher, expect more, and better themselves through self-love and self-care. She proves that falling only means you can stand stronger! Interview MG: What is you educational background and/or experience? BRANDI: I have multiple certifications ranking me as a Master Personal Trainer. My certifications and expertise include: Certified Personal Trainer, Certified Fitness Coach, Certified Nutrition Coach, Certified Glute Specialist, Certified Transformation Specialist, Certified Bodybuilding Coach, PN-1 Certified, GGS-1Plus Certified Women’s Coach, Certified Holistic Nutrition & Wellness Coach. MG: Currently, where are you employed? BRANDI: I own a private fitness/training studio called Barbelle Beauty Fitn...

By Kayla MorganNo Comments

Food

Pumpkin Chili

Louisiana cuisine is rooted in a culture of celebration and hospitality. It is a melting pot of flavors and influences from French, Spanish, African, German, Italian and Native American culture. The distinctive blend of ingredients and culinary methods produces a delectable and lively cuisine that mirrors the exceptional history of our state. The most iconic dishes in Louisiana cuisine are gumbo, Po’boys, jambalaya, crawfish, and shrimp Étouffée. Other popular dishes in Louisiana cuisine include red beans and rice, beignets, and bananas foster. Louisiana food an integral part of our culture and is a reflection of the unique backgrounds of its people, and is served with warmth and hospitality. (Not all foods or recipes contained are Louisiana based). 1 onion 1-2 carrots 1...

By MGMNo Comments

Food

Chili Pie

Louisiana cuisine is rooted in a culture of celebration and hospitality. It is a melting pot of flavors and influences from French, Spanish, African, German, Italian and Native American culture. The distinctive blend of ingredients and culinary methods produces a delectable and lively cuisine that mirrors the exceptional history of our state. The most iconic dishes in Louisiana cuisine are gumbo, Po’boys, jambalaya, crawfish, and shrimp Étouffée. Other popular dishes in Louisiana cuisine include red beans and rice, beignets, and bananas foster. Louisiana food an integral part of our culture and is a reflection of the unique backgrounds of its people, and is served with warmth and hospitality. (Not all foods or recipes contained are Louisiana based). 6 flour tortillas Corn c...

By MGMNo Comments

Lifestyle

Inspirational Women – Kiran Chawla

Standing her ground against bullying and injustice, to not only persevere, but to also dominate in her field, Kiran Chawla is the woman to watch! Instead of being run out of town, she has shown that digging in your heels has the best rewards. Interview MG: Where were you born and raised? KIRAN: Jackson, MS MG: If not Louisiana, what led to you move here? When? KIRAN: Dad got a better job so we moved to Louisiana in 1995 MG: Currently, where are you employed? KIRAN: This feels great to say!!! I work for MYSELF under the company Unfiltered with Kiran! MG: What is your job title? KIRAN: Owner, CEO, Manager, Investigative Reporter, Reporter, Editor, Photographer, Digger, shall I keep going??? I’m blessed to finally have been able to get some help now ...

By Yvette WhittingtonNo Comments

Inspire

Bountiful Blessings

A farmer lives for two seasons, planting and harvesting. Just like them, we all must each plant seeds for something to grow. If you are even slightly familiar with the daunting task of farming, you know the hours and dedication it takes. They are up before dawn and work well into the evening hours to make sure their crops will be bountiful. There are no breaks or calling in sick. Without their consistency, their crop will not survive. Farmers know if the work doesn’t get done, their family will not be fed, nor will the many others who depend on that harvest. The weather conditions, too much rain or a lack of, all play a huge role in the success of their yield. As we are witnessing all across the world right now, crops are failing at an astronomical rate. For farmers, the weather is outsid...

By MGMNo Comments

Inspire

The Harvest

Waiting for “the harvest” can be tough. Sometimes we feel like we waste our efforts, because nothing appears to be growing. We do our part: we plant, feed, water, watch, and hope. However, sometimes the watch part takes a lot longer than we expected, and the hope part grows smaller and smaller. When hope grows smaller, fear, worry, and doubt grow bigger. For a moment, let’s think on how you watch and let’s put that into perspective. Envision yourself watching for the harvest to be ready. Are you sitting in a chair in a field waiting for any sign of growth? Are you doing other things and checking in on your field now and then? Or are you tending to the field, working it, and giving it what it needs? When we align our thoughts toward a goal—a harvest—then we will always do what it takes...

By Michelle JesterNo Comments

Culture

Picture Louisiana – Michelle Jester

We love to highlight some of the amazing photographers who find beauty in the breathtaking natural scenery of Louisiana as well as everyday life. From bustling cities, the lush swamplands, to the vibrant bayous, the state is teeming with beauty. The magnificent landscape of Louisiana is truly something to behold. Whether you’re looking going on a peaceful fishing trip or an adventurous outing, Louisiana has views for you to enjoy. From the natural beauty of the wetlands, the breathtaking beaches, bayous where rivers are lined with moss-covered cypress trees, Louisiana offers the perfect backdrop to many memorable experiences. Capturing the incredible scenery in Louisiana is easier and easier to share, with nearly everyone equipped with a camera. We hope you enjoy! As seen in Modern Gr...

By Michelle JesterNo Comments

Letter from the Editor

What Comes After a Fall?

Fall can be a negative word. In a fall, we are usually defeated. We fall when our efforts fail. We fall off the wagon. We fall into depression. We fall out of Grace. When stocks fall, it’s damaging. When something befalls us, it’s usually detrimental. When I typed the word “fall” in Microsoft Word, these are the replacement words: Reduction, Decrease, Drop, Tumble, Descent, Plummet, Plunge, and Collapse. When we descend into chaos, it’s negative. Plunge into darkness, sad. Collapse, debilitating. We all have had falls in our lives like many of the ways I mention, if not all of them. However, what comes after a fall? A rise. A familiar phrase that we’ve all heard, and likely used to encourage someone who was at their lowest, is, “There is nowhere to go b...

By Keeley BrooksNo Comments

Health

Finding Inspiration for Your Health

Most of us are trying to pick up the pieces of our mental health. It’s hard to remain positive, let alone inspired. Maybe you’re feeling anxious or panicked. Maybe some depression is there lurking in the shadows, or maybe you’re even feeling a little lost and are looking for some inspiration in your life. Whatever the case, positivity simply isn’t an option all the time. It’s not something that feels easily accessible. If you search for inspiration amongst your struggles, here are some tips that can help you get the ball rolling. Gratitude. Expressing gratitude, even for little things, is a healthy place to start. It can be as simple as waking each day and expressing thanks for being alive with all five senses or as deep as acknowledging the people and relationships with which you hav...

By MGMNo Comments

Lifestyle

Inspirational Women – Erin Vavasseur

This inspirational woman proves that you can do it all—Erin Vavasseur is a mom, model, bartender, and owner of her own photography company! She motivates other women to love themselves for who they are! Interview MGM: Currently, where are you employed? Erin: I work full-time with Moody V Photograph, Lead Model at Modern Grace Magazine, and part-time at Coconut Willy’s Daiquiris in Central. MGM: What is your job title? Erin: Owner/Photographer, Model, and Bartender! MGM: If you haven’t lived in Louisiana your entire life, what led you to move here? Erin: So I have lived here MOST of my life! I did move to Colorado Springs in 2014 and it was the experience of a lifetime! The weather and mountains were some of the most beautiful views I have ever had a chance to witness. But as...

By MGMNo Comments

Home & Garden

Foodscaping

Don’t like the typical rows of garden plants? Well, take heart because foodscaping can save not only your organic food dreams, but also your landscaping. Differing from conventional vegetable gardening, where fruits and vegetables are typically grown in separate, enclosed areas, foodscaping incorporates edible plants as a major element of a pre-existing landscaping space. You can incorporate various kinds of vegetables, fruit trees, berry bushes, edible flowers, and herbs, along with purely ornamental species that already exist in your yard. A motivator behind gardening is the desire to grow, cook, and consume foods that are organic and of high nutritious content. However, many people find it impossible to place or maintain a large traditional garden. That’s why foodscaping is becoming ...

By MGMNo Comments

Food

Roast Beef with Vegetables

Louisiana cuisine is rooted in a culture of celebration and hospitality. It is a melting pot of flavors and influences from French, Spanish, African, German, Italian and Native American culture. The distinctive blend of ingredients and culinary methods produces a delectable and lively cuisine that mirrors the exceptional history of our state. The most iconic dishes in Louisiana cuisine are gumbo, Po’boys, jambalaya, crawfish, and shrimp Étouffée. Other popular dishes in Louisiana cuisine include red beans and rice, beignets, and bananas foster. Louisiana food an integral part of our culture and is a reflection of the unique backgrounds of its people, and is served with warmth and hospitality. (Not all foods or recipes contained are Louisiana based). 1 Tbsp vegetable oil 3 lb chuc...

By Kristi Williams FontenotNo Comments

Inspire

Just Getting Started

For many people, myself included, this past season of life has just been hard. Looking back, the last few years have come with many trials and setbacks that have often left me wondering if we were ever going to get through this and return to life as we once knew it. Life threw us all the biggest curve ball at the exact same moment, and no one knew it was coming or how to prepare for it. In some ways, life stopped for a season. And for some, it may still be hard to look at what is ahead and see a clear path. The truth is, life did stop for most of us in one way or another. But through the trials God so graciously whispered to me, I’m not done yet. Four words that brought peace to my heart and soul that I didn’t even know I needed to hear. But God knew, and by speaking those words to me He ...

By Keeley BrooksNo Comments

Health

Stepping Into Change

It’s safe to say the world today—life itself—has changed completely, leaving behind one phase and stepping into another. From routines and schedules to jobs, cities, and babies, everyone everywhere is facing newness right now. New phases mean change, which is often overwhelming for many in a regular world, let alone a post-COVID one. So, if you’re feeling super-anxious with fear of the unknown right now, maybe feeling a myriad of emotions, take a breath and find comfort in knowing you are not alone. Here are a few tools to help guide your journey. Embrace–Like the monthly new moon, new phases signify new beginnings and offer us the chance to reinvent, set new intentions, work towards new goals, and start new projects. Simply acknowledging you are in a new phase is the first step to embr...

By MGMNo Comments

Inspire

Fearless in the Face of Failure

“I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work,” said Thomas Edison, a famous inventor who has revolutionized the modern world. This quote perfectly encapsulates the sentiment of being fearless in the face of self-doubt and failure. We can learn from our mistakes and use them to become better, more successful people. Failure is an understandable and relatable emotion. Everyone experiences doubt and fear when confronted with something unfamiliar or difficult. It’s human nature to want to avoid these feelings, but it’s important to remember that failure is only a path to success. By understanding our own weaknesses, we can become better people. The first step to being fearless in the face of self-doubt and failure is to accept that failure is part of life. Failure is ...

By Kristi Williams FontenotNo Comments

Inspire

Winds of Change

/*! elementor - v3.16.0 - 20-09-2023 */ .elementor-widget-image{text-align:center}.elementor-widget-image a{display:inline-block}.elementor-widget-image a img[src$=".svg"]{width:48px}.elementor-widget-image img{vertical-align:middle;display:inline-block} Within three months of getting the news my husband’s job transferred us from south Louisiana to south Texas, we started house hunted, put our house on the market, bought a house, sold our house, moved our children into an apartment, and finally a big ole moving truck boxed us up and moved us seven hours away. In a matter of what seemed like a second, our very busy family went from a household of six to a household of three. My three oldest children are all in college and stayed behind, so only our younges...

By Yvette WhittingtonNo Comments

Inspire

Strength While Broken

With life comes disappointment, failure, sadness, and loss. All of this has the potential to have an adverse effect on the quality of your life. It is during these times you will either find the strength to overcome or let it overcome you. It’s okay to be broken, but never let it be a place you dwell in for long. Let it be temporary and allow that same overwhelming feeling of sadness or disappointment to match the determination to move forward and learn from that chapter. Having had a few chapters in my life, some came close to breaking me. In fact, they did. I remember waking up some mornings and just feeling defeated and going back to bed. I was living in the sorrow instead of letting it be fuel to not only rebound but excel and be better than I was. The world now is frightening...

By MGMNo Comments

Lifestyle

A Louisiana Christmas

Christmas in Louisiana is a special time of year. From the traditional Southern holiday events like the Christmas on the River parade in West Monroe to the snow sports of the North Louisiana region, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Louisiana comes alive with holiday spirit during Christmas time, with carols filling the air and twinkling lights on the trees. Whether you're in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport, or some small town in between, there is no shortage of Christmas traditions and activities to enjoy. Many cities hold Christmas parades, featuring floats adorned with lights and decorations, marching bands, and of course, Santa himself! New Orleans hosts the world-famous "Christmas on the River" parade, which has been an annual tradition since 1999. This parade features...

By Taylor VoisinNo Comments

Culture

Picture Louisiana – Taylor Voisin

We love to highlight some of the amazing photographers who find beauty in the breathtaking natural scenery of Louisiana as well as everyday life. From bustling cities, the lush swamplands, to the vibrant bayous, the state is teeming with beauty. The magnificent landscape of Louisiana is truly something to behold. Whether you’re looking going on a peaceful fishing trip or an adventurous outing, Louisiana has views for you to enjoy. From the natural beauty of the wetlands, the breathtaking beaches, bayous where rivers are lined with moss-covered cypress trees, Louisiana offers the perfect backdrop to many memorable experiences. Capturing the incredible scenery in Louisiana is easier and easier to share, with nearly everyone equipped with a camera. We hope you enjoy! As seen in Modern Grace M...

By Kristen TrantNo Comments

Inspire

Purpose in Your Season

Fall was harvest time for many farmers in the south. They used various equipment for cutting beans, shucking corn, and picking cotton. Reaping the crops they have tended for many months. Fall harvest is a favorite time of the year, for most farmers. However, not all farmers' crops flourish or succeed or do well. Not all seeds sown will yield, even though they were all planted at the same time with the same hope. It’s hard to watch other farmers and crops flourish when you worked hard for the same outcome. In life, it is easy to feel this way with many situations. We expect a certain timeline of events to happen and in a particular order. We expect those “seeds” we plant in the spring to be ready to harvest in the fall. Graduation, college, career. Starter home, dream home. D...

By Michelle JesterNo Comments

Letter from the Editor

The Bigger Picture

I am putting out this editor’s letter as all of our lives are starting to kick back into full speed. Getting back to the day-to-day bustle is going to be exciting as well as overwhelming for many. The majority of our models, contributors, photographers, graphic designers, and editors are facing major life-altering events such as death in the family, moving, starting new jobs, having babies, etc. I am personally going into a second wrist surgery and lengthy recovery, and because of this, we have collectively decided to take a fall-winter hiatus. While we will be putting out several articles online, the magazine itself will not be printed. When I first suggested a hiatus, the collective reaction was disbelief, then relief. One of the models asked, “Will that hurt the magazine?” and I ...

By MGMNo Comments

Health

Water, Water

Your skin feels better and so does your body when you are properly hydrated, especially during the spring and summer months. If the main reason you don’t drink water is because it doesn’t have a taste or is boring, you aren’t alone. Many people refuse to drink water simply because they don’t like it. Thankfully, flavored waters are available such as Smartwater+ renew® which has a crisp unique flavor, hint® water which is fruit infused and flavorful, or for those who like lightly flavored water that is carbonated, LaCroix Sparking Water is flavored with natural fruit oils. Still, we have a fun twist on the fruit and vegetable infused water, that is not only easy to put together on your rush out the door, but it is also visually appealing and takes only a few minutes of preparation. Get...

By Yvette WhittingtonNo Comments

Inspire

Bloom in Grace

/*! elementor - v3.16.0 - 20-09-2023 */ .elementor-widget-image{text-align:center}.elementor-widget-image a{display:inline-block}.elementor-widget-image a img[src$=".svg"]{width:48px}.elementor-widget-image img{vertical-align:middle;display:inline-block} The holidays have come and gone in haste. The cold winter nights have faded into the distance. The slight breeze we enjoy in the morning air and sunset nights will soon subside, and the hot Louisiana heat will take its place. The gardens will bloom and prepare for the harvest, and the grass will grow faster and faster each week without fail. Porches will become gathering places, and sweet iced tea will become the prevalent drink of choice. Most of us will take this time, if we haven’t already, to throw out the old and forgotte...

By Kristi Williams FontenotNo Comments

Inspire

Refilling for the Season Ahead

/*! elementor - v3.16.0 - 20-09-2023 */ .elementor-widget-image{text-align:center}.elementor-widget-image a{display:inline-block}.elementor-widget-image a img[src$=".svg"]{width:48px}.elementor-widget-image img{vertical-align:middle;display:inline-block} I found myself extremely excited to get back into my garden this spring. There is something so refreshing to me when it comes to getting my hands dirty in God’s soil. It really does have a way of refreshing my soul. I learn so much every year and I always look forward to adding what I have learned into the next year, with hopes of watching my garden thrive as I nourish it into the summer months. At the beginning of every season, I assessed my garden and one thing I noticed pretty quickly was that I needed to refill it with the prope...

By MGMNo Comments

Culture

Picture Louisiana – Layden Lewis

We love to highlight some of the amazing photographers who find beauty in the breathtaking natural scenery of Louisiana as well as everyday life. From bustling cities, the lush swamplands, to the vibrant bayous, the state is teeming with beauty. The magnificent landscape of Louisiana is truly something to behold. Whether you’re looking going on a peaceful fishing trip or an adventurous outing, Louisiana has views for you to enjoy. From the natural beauty of the wetlands, the breathtaking beaches, bayous where rivers are lined with moss-covered cypress trees, Louisiana offers the perfect backdrop to many memorable experiences. Capturing the incredible scenery in Louisiana is easier and easier to share, with nearly everyone equipped with a camera. We hope you enjoy! As seen in Modern Grace M...

By Alexis JesterNo Comments

Fashion

Make it Colorful!

When you think spring, you immediately imagine beautiful bright colors, flowers, and fresh fruits. This year, trends are not shying away from any of it! Mixing textures and pairing flowing with fitted clothing is absolutely acceptable. Embrace loud prints and dazzling colors. Push yourself to be expressive and let your creativity BLOSSOM. Show off those shoulders. We can finally go outside, so don’t be afraid to let the sun shine on your skin. Halter tops, sleeveless, deep V-neck, square neckline, asymmetrical and cutouts...try them all! Go wild with color pairings such as pink, every shade of yellow, teal, and blue accents. Bring all of it to the table this year, especially ORANGE, ORANGE, ORANGE! Netting is big this spring and summer, so play around with dress netting a...